About the Economic Census

What is the Economic Census?

The Economic Census is the U.S. Government's official five-year measure of American business and the economy. It is conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, and response is required by law.

In October through December 2012, forms were sent out to nearly 4 million businesses, including large, medium and small companies representing all U.S. locations and industries. Respondents were asked to provide a range of operational and performance data for their companies.

Some industries are not covered by the economic census.

As part of the U.S.Census Bureau's mission to measure America's economy, the last Economic Census is being conducted for the year ending December 2012.

Why is it Important?

Data from the Economic Census is important for your industry, your community and your business.

  • Your trade association and chamber of commerce rely on information from the census for economic development and business decisions.
  • Government agencies, analysts and business organizations nationwide also rely on census information for planning and key economic reports.
  • Information provided by the Economic Census can also help you support decisions and planning for your own business.

How Content of the Economic Census is Determined

Before each economic census, the Census Bureau consults a variety of experts, both within and outside the federal government.  The principal sources of advice to the agency over the long term are its public advisory committees and key federal data users. Specific industry associations and companies are consulted on particular points, such as the content of a questionnaire. 

The Census Scientific Advisory Committee provides scientific and technical expertise to address Census Bureau program needs and objectives. The committee meets twice a year to advise the Bureau on a wide range of issues affecting its programs.

The Census Bureau works closely with the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) to ensure its programs meet BEA's needs for constructing the national accounts.  The Census Bureau also works with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to assist in their efforts, particularly for constructing producer price indexes. A comprehensive review of all individual census forms was undertaken with BEA and BLS during 2010.

The Census Bureau contacted approximately 1,000 trade associations beginning in January 2010 to solicit recommendations and comments.

All economic census forms are submitted to the Office of Management and Budget for final approval.  At least 60 days before those submissions, "pre-submission notices" are published in the Federal Register.